Kadena Pierce is no stranger to the challenge of Tough Mudder. The local has competed in the challenge three consecutive years, and is ready to make her fourth year her best yet.
She competed in harsh weather conditions last year that set her back.
“This year I am hoping to not freeze like last year. Last year’s event organizer said Drumheller was one of their toughest courses because of the cold wind and rain. This year I am looking forward to, and hoping for, better weather,” says Pierce.
“I trained a lot more for this one than I did last year. It is challenging.”
As a fitness instructor and past Tough Mudder contestant, she has some advice on preparing for the challenge, “practice your pull ups, upper body strength and running. Scrape up your elbows and knees a lot because they are going to take a beating and it will be helpful to have some thick skin there.”
Tough Mudder is a challenge that is not timed or competitive.
“The one thing Tough Mudder stresses the most is the camaraderie. It is not a race, it is a challenge. It is all about team work and helping your fellow Mudder out. That is my favorite part about Tough Mudder. The team work. Even last year when it was super cold everyone was helping everyone,” says Pierce.
Pierce reflects on her first Tough Mudder in Whistler, British Columbia, almost four years ago.
“I was scared. I was wondering if I was strong enough to complete the course. I finished it and it was amazing. The feeling of pride when you come off the course is amazing. It is what has kept me coming back.”
“Last year, I think my toughest obstacle was called Funky Monkey, it was a giant monkey bar above water. I was already soaking wet, and it was slippery. I took one swing and landed right in the water. I knew it was going to happen but I had to try anyway.”
Drumheller’s third annual Tough Mudder is set to run August 6 and 7.
